Detroit City Wire

Wayne County, MICH. - Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) and the Wayne County Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services (HHVS) announced an innovative new program to train the future of vision and hearing leaders right here in Wayne County. WCCCD will recruit new Vision & Hearing Scholars - promising student-leaders studying American Sign Language, Early Childhood and other disciplines-who will train as Vision & Hearing Screening Specialists. Throughout the school year alongside classes, the Scholars will provide screening services for students across the county under the guidance and oversight of HHVS specialists. The program will begin in the fall with intensive training; Scholars will work with HHVS throughout their time on campus. Scholars will be compensated for their work at a rate commensurate with their role.

The Vision & Hearing Scholars program is a pilot program for a broader Navigator program between the college and the county, which will provide training to promising students for critical roles within the county. The pilot program builds on the recognition that the best talent to serve Wayne County is right here in Wayne County.

"I am excited about this mutually beneficial partnership with Wayne County Community College District; it will afford us the opportunity to build a stronger workforce in Wayne County by investing in well educated, culturally diverse and career ready individuals," said County Executive Evans. "Additionally, it provides extra incentives for students to complete their studies knowing that we are committed to creating a bridge into the workforce."

"Our mission has always been to provide pathways to better lives through higher education," said WCCCD Chancellor Dr. Curtis L. Ivery. "We are thrilled to work with the Wayne County Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services on a program that taps into vital expertise and talent to create access and opportunities for so many across Wayne County.

"We are particularly proud to grow important skills and expertise within the county, which only helps our region thrive," Ivery said.

Original source can be found here.